James
Bond 23 to film in India. After shooting in exotic locales across the
globe, the world’s most famous spy has taken a fancy to desi
destinations like the humble Sarojini Nagar market in Delhi and
relatively unknown Navagam town near Ahmedabad. Other possible locations
that the latest James Bond flick could be shot in include the
sun-kissed beaches of Goa and business hub Mumbai.The
I&B ministry has given permission to India Take One Productions to
shoot the latest Bond film. ‘Bond 23′ is likely to be shot at the
cheek-by-jowl streets of Daryaganj, Sarojini Nagar market and Ansari
Road in Delhi. The film, to be directed by Sam Mendes, will be released
in 2012. This also marks the 50th anniversary of the successful ‘Dr No’
and the Bond franchise.
The producers have been given permission to shoot in North Goa with the
exception of the tunnel at Dudhsagar (south-eastern railway) and Zuari
rail bridge over Zuari river (Konkan railways) due to security concerns.
Sources said talks with the railway ministry were on regarding these
particular locales.

In Ahmedabad, the producers had sought permission to shoot near the
Navagam area that is close to installations like Torrent Power limited,
ONGC and IOC. The ministry has asked them to ensure that permissions are
taken from the railway ministry and the state government. “We have
suggested that these vital installations be avoided during the shoot in
this area,” a source said.

The Bond film will join an increasing number of foreign films that are
being given permission to shoot in India. At last count, 22 films
including big ticket productions like the Tom Cruise-starrer ‘Mission
Impossible’, ‘Life of Pi’, ‘Singularity’ and ‘The Best Exotic Marigold
Hotel’ had been given permission. Among reality shows that have been
cleared include the World’s Strictest Parents’ Australia and New Zealand
productions.